Labeling is a required step in the logistics process. Without it, your cargo will not be allowed to clear customs. In this article, Partner Trade will reveal the intricacies of labeling and demonstrate how the slightest errors in the process can translate into huge financial losses for entrepreneurs trying to ship internationally.
What is labeling
Labeling is a process of using specific letter and number combinations or codes to identify a shipment at every stage of delivery.
Every box of goods, single item, and pallet (if you have a large consignment of goods) must be labeled.
Where to get labels
Labels are usually supplied by the producer of the goods, a prep service company, or the client themselves, if the client is also the manufacturer of the goods. Labeling can also be carried out at the fulfillment center.
What are the mandatory components of labeling
- Customer ID
Customer ID includes the sender’s full name and the client code. It can contain both letters and numbers. For example, PT or 00012. The code can be obtained from the logistics operator that provides the service and then handed to the person applying the labels.
- Product code
It can be obtained from the manufacturer of the goods. Every item has to be labeled with a unique barcode, which contains from 12 to 14 digits. Often, the barcode is shortened to the last 6 digits (HS code).
If you have a listing on Amazon, the marketplace issues an FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit) code for each product. It can also serve as a product identifier. This code has a higher priority than the other codes on the item.
What else do you need to know?
Package quantity is also important. For example, one box contains 25 items, and the other one has 50. You need to specify the item quantity so that each of your recipients will receive the correct amount of goods.
What happens in the absence of labeling
- Mistakes while handling the cargo
While accepting the goods, warehouse workers will get confused if the labeling is incorrect or absent. They will not know who the cargo belongs to, what it contains, or where it is being shipped. It will be set aside and labeled as “pending clarification”. It can take a month or more to clarify the information about the cargo.
- Re-grading
If only the client code is indicated on the packaging, but there is no product code, it becomes impossible to determine the exact price of the product. The buyer can receive either a cheaper or a more expensive version. It can lead to financial losses, negative reviews, and a stain on your reputation as an Amazon seller.
- Returning the goods
Incorrect labeling can result in returning the wrong item as well as replacing it with the one that was ordered originally. It will require additional time and money.
- Applying the wrong shipping label
Incorrect product information can result in warehouse workers applying the wrong shipping label to the package. In this case, the cargo will be shipped to a different customer.
Reducing the time for selecting and shipping goods
The cargo should be shipped only if it includes the customer ID, product code, and package quantity on the label.
Whatever your cargo may be, Partner Trade will calculate the ideal route and optimal delivery costs.
We will take into account the weight, dimensions, type, and direction of the movement of the goods. We also provide order fulfillment services, which cover delivery, storage, and transportation of cargo.
Are you Interested in shipping to Amazon? Would you like to know all the details of using this online trading platform, its logistics, and other issues? Find out more about the intricacies of working with the marketplace in other blog posts.